About the song
Joan Baez’s rendition of “The Green Green Grass of Home” is a beautifully haunting take on a classic song that resonates deeply with those who appreciate both the power of music and the nostalgia of simpler times. Originally penned by Curly Putman and popularized by a variety of artists over the years, this song has become an emblem of yearning and the desire for a return to familiar comforts.
The song tells the poignant story of a man who, imprisoned and longing for freedom, dreams of his homeland and the lush, familiar landscape that symbolizes comfort and belonging. The imagery of “green green grass” serves as a powerful metaphor for the serenity and contentment he yearns for, contrasting sharply with his current reality. The narrative is imbued with a sense of melancholy and wistfulness, capturing the essence of homesickness in a deeply relatable way.
Joan Baez, known for her distinctive voice and evocative storytelling, brings a unique depth to this song. Her performance is characterized by its tender emotion and reflective tone, which perfectly aligns with the song’s themes of longing and nostalgia. Baez’s interpretation adds a layer of elegance and authenticity, making the song feel both timeless and immediate.
Her version of “The Green Green Grass of Home” stands out not only for its musical beauty but also for its ability to connect with listeners on a personal level. The song invites us to reflect on our own memories and the places we hold dear, creating a universal experience of longing for a place we consider home.
In this rendition, Joan Baez has not only honored a classic but has also given it a fresh, poignant voice that continues to resonate with audiences, evoking a sense of nostalgia and introspection. For those who cherish music that speaks to the heart, her performance of “The Green Green Grass of Home” is a touching reminder of the power of home and memory.
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Lyrics
The old home town looks the same
As I step down from the train
And there to meet me is my mama and my papa
Down the road I look and there comes Mary
Hair of gold and lips like cherries
It’s good to touch the green, green grass of home
The old house is still standing
Tho’ the paint is cracked and dry
And there’s that old oak tree that I used to play on
Down the lane I walk with my sweet Mary
Hair of gold and lips like cherries
It’s good to touch the green, green grass of home
Yes, they’ll all come to meet me, arms reaching, smiling sweetly
It’s good to touch the green, green grass of home
Then I wake and look around me
To the cold gray wall that surround me
And then I realize that I was only dreaming
There’s the guard and the sad old padre
Arm in arm we’ll walk at daybreak
Again I touch the green, green grass of home
Yes, we’ll all be together in the shade of the old oak tree
When we meet beneath the green, green grass of home